Roof Flashing Failure: What You Need to Know

Replacing a roof is a large and expensive undertaking, but it’s essential for maintaining the integrity of your home. One of the most important components in any roof replacement job is properly installing and maintaining flashing. This blog post will take a look at what flashing does, the common causes of failure and how to repair it.

Roof Flashing: What Is It and What Does It Do? 

Roof flashing is a waterproof barrier made out of metal or plastic that directs water away from vulnerable areas on your rooftop, such as chimneys and vents. It is meant to create an impermeable barrier between the two sections, so water can’t get inside your home and cause damage.

Common Causes of Roof Flashing Failure

Flashing failure is caused by:

• Poor Installation. An inexperienced roofer may overlook proper installation techniques when applying seals around fixtures. This causes flashing to fail prematurely due to weather exposure. The weak spots created throughout the surface area can result in structural issues that require more extensive repairs.

• Poor Maintenance: It’s essential to perform a roof inspection and maintenance every year. Without regular checks, there won’t be an accurate gauge to identify whether replacements are needed.

• Natural Wear and Tear: Over time, outdoor elements will slowly erode roof’s protective layers, making them brittle and unable to withstand everyday pressure. This can lead to partial or complete deterioration.

Common Signs of Roof Flashing Failure 

When roof flashing fails, it can cause serious problems such as water leaks, mold growth and discoloration. Some common signs that your roof flashing may be failing are cracked or missing flashing, water leaks around the chimney or other fixtures, visible mold growth in those areas, and discoloration on the ceiling below the flashing. 

How to Repair Roof Flashing Failure

When your roof flashing needs repair, it is best to hire a professional. A roofer will inspect the roof, remove any old sealant layer and clean the area so that nothing interferes with the new application of roof flashing. Finally, they will ensure there are no gaps between pieces, which would allow moisture to seep in and cause further interior damage.

Turn to premier roofing company American Roofing & Construction, LLC in Raleigh, NC, for all your roofing needs. We can help you assess the damage and determine if roof repairs or replacements are necessary to protect your home from further water damage. Call us at (919) 917-2118 (Raleigh) or (910) 964-0114 (Southern Pines) for a free consultation. You may also reach us via our online contact form.